HomeDate: 2025-12-03
The European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) announced the 2025 cohort of EMBO Young Investigators on December 2, 2025. Dr. See-Yeun Ting, Assistant Research Fellow at the Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, was selected for this prestigious international recognition, underscoring Taiwan’s growing capacity for innovation in the field of Microbiology. Dr. Ting’s research group has long focused on elucidating interbacterial interactions within polymicrobial communities, particularly the antagonistic and cooperative mechanisms that shape community composition and dynamics. Since joining Academia Sinica in 2021, he has established a forward-looking research program centered on the molecular mechanisms of interbacterial interactions and assembled a highly dynamic, interdisciplinary team dedicated to uncovering key molecular processes that remain poorly understood in microbiology.
Dr. Ting’s scientific foundation is rooted in his doctoral training in protein translocation and his postdoctoral work on bacterial protein secretion systems. This background enabled him to rapidly develop an original research trajectory upon establishing his independent laboratory. His team currently investigates three major areas: (1) defining the mechanisms that govern antibacterial toxins and target selection by bacterial secretion systems, thereby revealing the molecular basis of interbacterial antagonism; (2) identifying protective pathways that enable bacteria to defend against external biotic threats, including novel immunity determinants and toxin- neutralization mechanisms; and (3) engineering interbacterial antagonistic and cooperative modules to develop emerging biotechnologies capable of controlling microbial community composition and behavior. These efforts have produced research of high originality and global impact, solidifying Dr. Ting’s position within the international microbiology and synthetic biology communities.
Upon receiving the EMBO Young Investigator distinction, Dr. Ting expressed deep appreciation. “This
international recognition is profoundly meaningful for us and reflects Taiwan’s rapid integration into global research on interbacterial interactions,” he noted. “I am sincerely grateful for the support from colleagues and mentors at Academia Sinica, which has allowed our young laboratory to develop steadily in a short period. I also extend my thanks to our collaborators in Taiwan and abroad, whose expertise has been invaluable to our scientific progress.” He further highlighted future opportunities: “Becoming part of the EMBO Young Investigator community will enhance our engagement with leading research teams across Europe and worldwide. I look forward to expanding collaborations, exchanging ideas, and driving scientific and technological breakthroughs through this international platform.”
Established in 2000, the EMBO Young Investigator Programme supports early-stage independent researchers (within four years of starting their laboratory) in the field of Molecular Biology, helping them build internationally competitive research teams. EMBO comprises more than 2,100 leading scientists and serves as a key hub for interdisciplinary collaboration and scientific exchange. Each year, the programme selects around 20 outstanding junior researchers from EMBO member states and provides four years of support, including international networking opportunities, professional training, laboratory development resources, and mentorship from EMBO members. Awardees join a global community of more than 800 current and former Young Investigators, EMBO Installation Grantees, and Global Investigators, collectively fostering the next generation of scientific leaders and driving long-term advances in the Life Sciences.
For more information: https://www.embo.org/press-releases/twenty-eight-group-leaders-become-embo-young-investigators/
